Watching your baby grow is filled with milestones, and one of the most memorable is the arrival of their first tooth. But when do baby teeth start to appear, and in what order? Understanding the primary teeth eruption sequence can help you prepare for teething and ensure your child’s oral health stays on track.

At LeBlanc & Associates, your trusted pediatric dentist in Kansas City, we help families navigate every stage of their child’s dental development. Here’s everything you need to know about baby teeth eruption and how to care for your child’s smile.

How Many Teeth Do Kids Have?

Before we dive into the eruption sequence, let’s answer a common question: How many teeth do kids have?

Children typically develop 20 primary teeth, also known as baby teeth. These teeth include:

• 8 incisors (front teeth)
• 4 canines (pointed teeth)
• 8 molars (back teeth)

These primary teeth play a vital role in helping children chew, speak, and maintain space for their future permanent teeth.

The Primary Teeth Eruption Sequence

Baby teeth generally begin to appear when your child is around 6 months old, though this can vary. Some babies may start teething as early as 4 months, while others may not get their first tooth until closer to 12 months.

Here’s the typical order of baby teeth eruption:

1. Lower Central Incisors (Bottom Front Teeth)
   • When: 6–10 months
   • What Happens: These are usually the first teeth to appear, making teething symptoms most noticeable during this stage.
2. Upper Central Incisors (Top Front Teeth)
   • When: 8–12 months
   • What Happens: Shortly after the bottom front teeth, the top central incisors emerge, creating your baby’s first adorable toothy smile.
3. Upper Lateral Incisors (Top Side Teeth)
   • When: 9–13 months
   • What Happens: These teeth fill in on either side of the central incisors.
4. Lower Lateral Incisors (Bottom Side Teeth)
   • When: 10–16 months
   • What Happens: These follow their upper counterparts, completing the front teeth lineup.
5. First Molars (Back Teeth)
   • When: 13–19 months
   • What Happens: The first molars appear behind the canines, helping your child begin to chew more solid foods.
6. Canines (Pointed Teeth)
   • When: 16–22 months
   • What Happens: Also called cuspids, these teeth emerge between the incisors and molars, giving your child’s smile a fuller look.
7. Second Molars (Back Teeth)
   • When: 23–33 months
   • What Happens: These are the last primary teeth to erupt, typically completing your child’s set of 20 baby teeth by age 3.

What to Expect During Teething

Teething can be an uncomfortable process for babies. Common symptoms include:

• Sore or swollen gums
• Increased drooling
• Mild irritability or fussiness
• Chewing on objects

To soothe your baby’s discomfort, try:

• Offering a chilled (not frozen) teething ring
• Gently massaging their gums with a clean finger
• Using an age-appropriate teething gel (consult your pediatric dentist first)

When Should You Visit a Pediatric Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dentist appointment by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting.

Regular visits to a kids dentist ensure that your child’s primary teeth are developing properly and allow early detection of any potential issues. At LeBlanc & Associates, our dental office provides reliable dentistry services to keep your child’s smile healthy from their first tooth to their teenage years.

Why Are Primary Teeth Important?

While baby teeth do eventually fall out, they are essential for your child’s development. Here’s why:

1. Speech Development: Primary teeth help children learn to pronounce words correctly.
2. Chewing and Nutrition: Healthy teeth allow kids to eat a balanced diet.
3. Spacing for Permanent Teeth: Baby teeth act as placeholders, guiding permanent teeth into the correct position.
4. Confidence: A healthy smile boosts your child’s self-esteem.

Taking care of primary teeth is a critical step in setting the foundation for lifelong oral health.

Caring for Your Baby’s Teeth

Good oral hygiene starts even before your baby’s first tooth appears. Here are some tips to keep their mouth healthy:

1. Clean Gums: Wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings.
2. Brush Early: Once the first tooth erupts, brush gently with a baby toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste.
3. Establish a Routine: Brush twice a day and introduce flossing when two teeth touch.
4. Visit the Dentist: Regular checkups with a children’s dentist help monitor your child’s dental development and prevent cavities.

When to Contact a Dentist

While teething is a normal part of development, certain situations may require professional attention:

• Delayed eruption: If no teeth appear by 12–15 months, consult a pediatric dentist.
• Severe teething discomfort: If your baby seems unusually distressed, your dental office can recommend safe relief options.
• Tooth decay: Even baby teeth are susceptible to cavities, so early intervention is key.

If there is a dental emergency, like a knocked out or broken tooth, you should always contact a pediatric dentist.

You’re Ready to Handle Baby Teeth Eruption!

Knowing the primary teeth eruption sequence and how many teeth kids have can help you support your child’s oral health journey. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure a healthy, happy smile for years to come.

If you have questions about your baby’s primary teeth or need assistance, contact LeBlanc & Associates today. Our experienced pediatric dentists are here to provide reliable dentistry for every stage of your child’s development.